Imagine feeling like bugs or worms are crawling on your skin when there’s nothing there. This condition, called hallucinatory parasitosis (or delusional infestation), is a psychological disorder that affects both the mind and the skin. Treating it requires a team effort from dermatologists and mental health professionals.
People with this condition are convinced they’re infested, leading to severe distress. According to a review in Clinical Infectious Diseases, the best care comes from Psychodermatology centers, where experts focus on both physical and mental health. Anna Graziella Burroni, a leading Psychodermatology specialist, says building trust with patients is crucial. Instead of dismissing their beliefs, dermatologists should approach with empathy, saying something like, “Let’s investigate further to find out what’s happening.”
This helps keep patients engaged and more open to exploring mental health treatment. In clinics like San Martino University Hospital in Genoa, doctors spend extra time helping patients through their physical and emotional challenges. While Psychodermatology is still a niche field, it’s growing, with more specialists and discussions on improving care. For those dealing with hallucinatory parasitosis, a kind, collaborative approach offers real hope for recovery.
Maria Kalaridi
